The most important financial institution in the country, the Bank of Namibia is responsible for managing currency and monetary policy. Located in Windhoek, the bank’s HQ recently completed an upgrade of the A/V system in its main auditorium, used for on-site events and virtual conferences.
Specialists in A/V technology integration and supply, Stage Audio Works Namibia were chosen to lead the project. ‘Following the acceptance of our proposal by the Bank of Namibia, we began working closely with the in-house facilities and maintenance and engineering teams to design and implement the auditorium upgrade,’ says Stage Audio Works Namibia Technical Manager, Emce Smit. ‘The focus of the project was to enhance the overall experience for users, including upgrading the capabilities for streaming live events and improving the quality of the video conferencing technology, especially for delegates joining meetings remotely.’
The project included the audio, visual and control technologies, along with support for bring-your-own-device (BYOD) connectivity.
For video presentations, the installation includes a Crestron AirMedia Receiver with Wi-Fi connectivity. Video capture uses two Crestron PTZ cameras paired with a Fortinge 15-inch conference teleprompter to help with on-stage addresses.
Conferencing is built upon a Crestron Flex Video Conference System for Microsoft Teams Rooms, bringing both familiarity and a user-friendly experience to high-quality video conferencing. A Christie DWU960-iS laser projector is used for the main display, with Samsung screens for downstage comfort monitors as well as providing digital signage at the entrance to the auditorium. Content distribution is handled by Crestron DM NVX AV-over-IP.
‘Ceiling microphones were specifically requested by the client, so we chose the Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC2) microphones for this application as they offer an outstanding experience in an auditorium set-up,’ Smit explains. ‘The TCC2 arrays use automatic dynamic beamforming technology, ensuring comprehensive audio capture throughout the space.
‘For lighting, we opted for Cameo LED Fresnel wash lights in combination with an LED profile spotlight, which can be controlled via the Crestron wall plate at the auditorium entrance, plus LED strip lights.’
A custom podium from Windhoek Joinery Works (WJW) with a Sennheiser Gooseneck microphone and 7-inch Crestron touchpanel display, also offers connection options for those using their own device.
‘Simplified controls and an already familiar Microsoft Teams interface means operating the equipment is less daunting for delegates,’ Smit says. ‘Opting for an AV-over-IP solution also means the system is scalable and suitable for live-streaming, while eliminating the need for excessive cabling.’
The result is a conferencing space that requires minimal technical know-how from users. ‘The Bank of Namibia often invite staff from across the country to this auditorium and being involved in this project feels great, knowing we are empowering the institution with a first-class A/V system that will enhance their business communications,’ Smit says. ‘Plus, the flexibility of the networked technology means that the investment they’ve made now will serve them in the future should they wish to upgrade further.’
